Moisture Mapping involves measuring the moisture content of wood to identify potential problem areas and prevent moisture-related issues. Understanding wood moisture content is crucial for ensuring the longevity and integrity of wood structures.
Wood moisture content refers to the amount of water present within the wood fibers. It is typically measured as a percentage of the oven-dry weight of the wood. The ideal moisture content for wood varies depending on its intended use, but it generally ranges from 6% to 12%.
It is possible for wood to contain over 100% moisture content. This is known as "green wood" and occurs when the wood is freshly cut or saturated with water. In such cases, the moisture content exceeds the weight of the oven-dry wood. However, as wood dries, its moisture content decreases, eventually reaching equilibrium with the surrounding environment.